Former Inter Milan and Italy defender Marco Materazzi has expressed his willingness to sit down and reconcile with Zinedine Zidane, years after their infamous altercation during the 2006 FIFA World Cup final.

The dramatic moment, which saw Zidane headbutt Materazzi in the chest and earn a straight red card, remains one of the most iconic and controversial incidents in football history.

“I haven’t spoken to Zinedine since that day,” Materazzi revealed in an interview with Relevo. “I didn’t speak to him before, and I haven’t spoken to him since. We’ve never had any contact.

“He’s a football legend, and I’ve always respected him as a player. As a coach, he achieved greatness too, winning three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid.

“I don’t expect an apology from him today, but I would be happy to talk to him. After all these years, I believe it wouldn’t be an issue anymore.”

The Infamous Incident

Materazzi also shed light on the infamous exchange that led to Zidane’s shocking reaction, confirming he insulted Zidane's sister moments before the headbutt.

“That incident shouldn’t have happened,” Materazzi admitted. “During that intense final in Berlin, Zidane offered me his shirt, and I replied, ‘No, I’d prefer your sister.’ He then turned around and reacted the way everyone remembers.”

The Match That Defined an Era

Both Materazzi and Zidane scored during regular time in that World Cup final, with Zidane converting a penalty and Materazzi equalizing for Italy. The match ended 1-1 after extra time, and Italy ultimately triumphed 5-3 in the penalty shootout to lift the trophy.